Multiple international news platforms have spotlighted Sri Lanka’s Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo, as a potential successor to Pope Francis, who passed away yesterday.
Among the notable mentions, The Washington Examiner featured Cardinal Ranjith in its roundup of papal candidates, alongside other influential figures such as Cardinal Luis Tagle of the Philippines, Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline from France, and Italy’s Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
In a widely circulated report, USA Today also included Cardinal Ranjith in a global list of contenders, joining names like Cardinals Matteo Zuppi, Gerhard Müller, Robert Sarah, and Raymond Burke.
The Times of India, citing international Catholic news sources, highlighted that Cardinal Ranjith is viewed as a “dark horse” candidate, gaining attention for his traditional theological positions and representation of the Global South.
Further reinforcing his profile, The Washington Times emphasized Ranjith’s conservative approach within the Catholic Church, noting his advocacy for the Latin Mass and firm stance against same-sex unions. This positions him among the more traditionalist voices in the College of Cardinals.
Although a clear favorite has yet to emerge, the frequent mention of Cardinal Ranjith in global media signals his rising influence, especially as the Church contemplates leadership beyond its traditional European roots.
As of now, the Vatican has not announced the date for the conclave to select the new pope.